Access to higher education shouldn’t depend on gender. India offers a growing range of gender-wise scholarships aimed at promoting equal opportunity—whether you’re female, male, or identify beyond the binary. In 2025, these targeted scholarships help cover tuition, living expenses, and more, so everyone can pursue their academic dreams.
If you’re ready to grab a seat at a top college without draining your wallet, here’s everything you need to know.
Education should never hinge on identity. In 2025, India’s gender-wise scholarships recognize the unique challenges faced by women, transgender, and gender-nonconforming students, providing targeted financial support that transforms lives. From foundational programs for single girl children to advanced fellowships for women in STEM and dedicated awards for transgender scholars, these schemes dismantle barriers and foster true diversity on campus. By combining merit-based criteria with economic need, they ensure that talent and ambition—rather than circumstance—determine one’s future. Whether you’re pursuing undergraduate studies, professional courses, or research degrees, these scholarships offer not just funding but the freedom to learn, innovate, and lead.
🚀 Why Gender-Wise Scholarships Matter
- Promote Equity: Address historical imbalances in enrollment and retention
- Support Women in STEM: Drive female participation in science, technology, engineering, and math
- Encourage Diversity: Empower male students in traditionally female-dominated fields (like nursing, education)
- Foster Inclusion: Recognize the needs of transgender and non-binary students
By tapping into gender scholarships in India, you join a movement toward a fair and inclusive campus culture.
🏆 Top Gender-Wise Scholarships in India for 2025
| Scholarship Name | Target Group | Eligibility Criteria | Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| INSPIRE-KIRAN Scheme | Girls in Science (Class 11–12) | Top 1% in Class 10 science exams | ₹60,000/year (4 years) for BSc/BE |
| CBSE Single Girl Child Scholarship | Only girl child | First and second in board exams, any gender | ₹500/month for 5 years |
| Pragati Scholarship for Girls | Girls in Technical/Professional courses | Family income ≤ ₹6 Lakh | ₹50,000/year |
| SWAYAM Sub Category Scholarships | Transgender/non-binary | Enrollment in any Government MOOC course | Full course fees + certificate charges |
| Maulana Azad National Fellowship (MANF) for Girls | Minority girls | Top 8% in PG entrance; family income ≤ ₹6 Lakh | ₹2,800–₹5,000/month + tuition fees |
| ISHAN UDAY Scholarship | Girls from North-East | 60% in Class 12; any discipline | ₹5,400/month + admission & tuition fees |
| Central Sector Scheme of Scholarship (CSSS) | Girls/All students | 75% in Class 12; family income ≤ ₹8 Lakh | ₹20,000 – ₹48,000/year |
| National Fellowship for SC/ST Women | SC/ST women scholars | 55%+ in UG/PG for PhD admission | ₹31,000–₹35,000/month + contingency grant |
| Transgender Scholarship by Ministry of Social Justice | Transgender students | Confirmation of identity; UG/PG enrollment | Full tuition waiver + monthly stipend |
| Rashtriya Mahila Kosh Loan-cum-Scholarship | Women entrepreneurs | Priority to students with business ideas | Loan up to ₹3 Lakh + interest subsidy |
Always confirm the latest details and deadlines on the official portals.
🎯 Who Can Apply?
- Gender Criteria: Female, male (where specified), transgender, non-binary
- Academic Requirements: Varies by scholarship (50%–75% marks or top percentile)
- Income Norms: Some schemes require family income ceilings (₹2–8 Lakh)
- Course Enrollment: Must be admitted to a recognized UG/PG/PhD program
📅 How & When to Apply
- Identify Relevant Schemes: Check central/state scholarship portals and NGO sites
- Prepare Documents: Identity proof, gender certificate (if required), mark sheets, income proof, admission letter
- Register & Fill Form: Use NSP (National Scholarship Portal) or dedicated portals
- Upload & Submit: Ensure all scans are clear and accurate
- Track Status: Note application ID and monitor for verification
Tip: Most gender-wise scholarships open applications July–October. Early submission boosts your chances.
✨ How EduScout Empowers Your Scholarship Journey
Juggling multiple scholarship forms can be overwhelming. EduScout simplifies the process:
- Smart Filters: Find gender-wise scholarships that match your profile
- Deadline Alerts: Never miss an application window
- Document Guidance: Comprehensive checklist for hassle-free submission
- Expert Review: Our counselors optimize your application for success
🎯 One platform. 35+ colleges. 100+ scholarships. Zero stress, maximum support.
🔥 Final Word: Education for All Genders
Gender-wise scholarships break down barriers and champion diversity in India’s colleges. Whether you identify as female, male, transgender, or non-binary, there’s a scholarship waiting to fuel your academic journey.
